In response to continued odor complaints from nearby residents and schools, the South Coast AQMD Hearing Board has issued an Order for Abatement requiring Sunshine Canyon Landfill to adopt stronger measures to control odors and protect public health.

Since January 2023, the landfill has generated over 4,000 complaints, resulting in more than 150 Notices of Violation for causing a public nuisance under South Coast AQMD Rule 402 and the California Health & Safety Code. While Sunshine Canyon Landfill has cooperated in implementing odor-reduction measures, the persistent impacts on the community have led to a more formal enforcement response.

The new abatement order mandates several innovative and enhanced practices, including:

• Odor Prevention with Microbiology: Aerobic microbiology solutions are used during operations to reduce odors such as “fresh trash” and methane.
• Odor Neutralization at Transfer Stations: Apply neutralizers and biological treatments to control odors before disposal.
• Advanced Emissions Monitoring: Pilot project to deploy drones and robotic vehicles for real-time detection of pollutants to identify problem areas.
• Gas Flow Improvements: Test the use of gravel, crushed rock, and similar materials to improve gas movement around wells.
• Daily Odor Patrols: Conduct and document twicedaily surveys around the perimeter of the facility to monitor and address odor sources.

In addition, the landfill must evaluate the feasibility of installing gas systems without disturbing protective turf closures.

Located in Sylmar, Sunshine Canyon Landfill handles roughly one-third of all daily waste in Los Angeles County. While waste disposal is an important public service, South Coast AQMD is committed to ensuring that no facility’s operations compromise local air quality or community health.

To read the full press release, visit South Coast AQMD’s news archive.